Monday, January 11, 2010

Wendy's Films of 2010 #11: Adam's Rib (1949)

I sure do love Katharine Hepburn.
She has spunk and spine and might just be the best actress of the 20th Century. From The African Queen to The Philadelphia Story, Holiday and Bringing Up Baby, she never lets me down and Adam's Rib is no exception. There are a few slow parts, but Hepburn's spirit and magnificent line delivery holds it above what might otherwise be a sinking ship. Don't get me wrong, the film isn't bad, it just wouldn't be worthwhile without her. Like Holiday, it's a comedy with a heavier twist, it mixes humour with real issues and does so successfully. For the feminist, I must say this is one you shouldn't miss. As a female lawyer, Hepburn is pitted against her husband (Spencer Tracy) in the court of law and strives to push an equal justice system for both men and women. It's an interesting film from the perspective of gender studies as well as being an amusing diversion for the evening.

1 comment:

Ann Nyberg said...

Make sure to stop by the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center web site.
http://www.katharinehepburntheater.org